10 best gyms in Abu Dhabi

It’s time to bite the bullet and just do it. Here are your reasons: you ate too much at the iftar buffets. You need to shape up before beach season gets underway. And uhhh, its good for you. Abu Dhabi has gyms for body builders, cardio freaks, slimmers, exercise shirkers, and show-offs, so whatever category you fall into, you’ll find something to suit here. Now just download some upbeat tracks onto your iPod and get going.

Abu Dhabi Country ClubThis sports complex has everything going for it - a polished, leisurely atmopshere, state-of-the-art equipment, and surprisingly low rates – for the ladies at least. When you sign up, they throw in a free health screen, fitness assessment, personalized programme and two personal training sessions to get you off to a good start.

Rates: Dhs5000 for annual membership for women and Dhs10,000 for men.

Best feature: There are (believe it or not) spacious green grounds if you fancy taking a stroll to cool down after your workout. ‘Country Club’ might be stretching it, but it’s the closest you’ll get in the capital

Opening hours: 7am-11pmAl Saada street (02 657 7777).

Al Wahda Health ClubThe largest health club in the city (including a 2700 sqm spa), swimming pool and a supersized gym equipped with top-of-the-line Technogym aerobic and weight training machines. Staff are refreshingly helpful here too.

Rates: Dhs14,000 for annual membership (with 35 per cent off until the end of September)

Best feature: Their fitness classes are a little on the expensive side, but the price includes access to the sauna, stream room and Jacuzzi, even if you’re not a member. Bonus!

Armed Forces Officers ClubAs you’d expect of a military complex, Afoc’s fitness centre is a macho domain, where men lift weights the size of buses and sweat like Niagara Falls. But don’t be intimidated, everyone’s friendly for the most part. Still, best leave the Lycra shorts at home.

Rates: Dhs6,000 annual membership for men or women; includes access to the swimming pool

Best feature: What do Eamonn Holmes and Cheryl Cole have in common? Well, extremely little, except that they’re both fans of Hypoxi – a high-tech training system that targets your ‘problem areas’ for a more efficient workout. For men, this involves stepping into a wetsuit-like one-piece that increases pressure around your belly, making your time on the treadmill more efficient. For ladies, the suit squeezes the bum and thighs, helping you shift the wobble while you pedal. Afoc is one of very few places in the city to offer this celebrity-approved technology, available to members for an additional fee. Strap in.

Opening hours: 10am-1amAfoc (02 4415 900).

Bodylines at Beach RotanaWith more equipment than most, you’ll seldom find yourself waiting in line at this beachfront gym. And even if there’s someone hogging your bench, you can always take the opportunity to pick up some training tips from the staff, who are some of the friendliest we’ve ever encountered.

Best feature: With a lush view of the Arabian sea to check out while you’re exercising, you ought to emerge feeling tranquil as well as trim. And if not, there’s even special massage rates for members.

Haddins Fitness CentreA very social gym in Zayed Sports City, Haddin’s Gym is known for its varied training programs and activities, as well as top-notch equipment.

Rates: Haddins offer five tiers of membership, but basic yearly access is Dhs3,360

Best feature: A regular Corporate Contender boxing program, which provides intensive specialist training over a three month period, culminating a fight night where you get to put all your newfound skills to the test.

User reviews:

i am looking for triathlon training at gym or even workout
just want increase my fitness and more endrance
any ideas to help me
thanks

Posted by: Bryan on 26 Jan ' 15 at 18:55

Hi. Good feedback here guys. Romaine, I just moved to Abu Dhabi also. Did you find a good place to play tennis?? Still looking for someone to play with?

Bryan

Posted by: Samar on 12 Jan ' 15 at 19:06

Edited by TimeOutAbuDhabi.com

Hello all, i would have to disagree with this list on account that it seems outdated. Fitness first and Gold's Gym are missing which are very good gyms based on locations, facilities and size of the branches. Also the number one on your list as you boasted has 2 free training sessions well with Gold's gym I received 4 and even took 4 more that belonged to a family member which I utilized on boxing. It also has all the sports stores right next to it and I can enjoy both the male and female sections. My only concern was timing cuz it can get over crowded.

Posted by: Romaine Beasley on 17 Sep ' 14 at 16:34

Hi I just moved to AD from Houston. I am a tennis player and wondering where I can find other tennis players to play tennis? I am a 4.0 ranked player.. If anyone is interested in playing tennis or any suggestions please contact me.

Ro

Posted by: Dana on 27 Oct ' 11 at 16:58

yes there is a very good gym in KCA called health and fitness club, cloase to al yasmina school!!